"Kids don't differentiate about whether there is upheaval in the world,” said Dawn A. Dayton, Toy Fund Member and former Managing Editor of The Register-Herald. "They just know it's Christmas and they hope that Santa won't pass them over." "Mac's helps to keep that hope alive," Dayton said. This year, Mac's Toy Fund has awarded $29,500 in grants to 14 local charities for Christmas toys, clothes, and items to help families in need. Grants are as follows:
As part of the tradition that began in 1930, Thanksgiving weekend serves as the kickoff of Mac's fundraising campaign. For 94 years, people from Beckley, southern WV and around the region have donated to the fund, which helps provide a happier holiday season for hundreds of children. Pete Torrico, Mac’s Toy Fund Member said, “Even though we do not have the annual party at the convention center, Mac’s is still taking care of the children in Raleigh County by making contributions to 14 organizations to help with Christmas parties in Raleigh County. Additionally, $1,500 is being donated to the Kid's Classic and $1,000 to Operation Backpack.” Despite changes over the last couple of years, Mac's is still dependent on the generosity of donors who make the fund part of their own holiday traditions.
As always, donations are tax-deductible. Monetary contributions can be sent throughout the year, particularly leading up to the Christmas season, by mailing them to 1210 S. Kanawha Street, Beckley, WV 25801. Please make the check out to Beckley Area Foundation and write “Mac’s Toy Fund” in the memo or donate online at bafwv.org.
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 Beckley Area Foundation began the Students First program in 1996, to provide funding support for creative and innovative instructional projects. This grant opportunity supports Raleigh County classroom teachers, Pre-K through 12th grade in public and private schools. The BAF Board of Directors reviewed the committee grant recommendations for final approval and awarded $35,546.34 to 57 projects, supporting 45 teachers at 17 schools.
"On behalf of the BAF review committee, we would like to say congratulations to all the grant recipients this year. It’s exciting to see the energy, engagement and creative thinking these teachers are going to bring to their classrooms to inspire their students’ love of learning. We would also like to thank all those who applied, and we look forward to seeing even more teachers apply next year." — Michelle Leftwich | Students First Chair & BAF Board Member
This year's Students First program was one of the most competitive BAF has seen since pre-covid. BAF received 113 applications totaling more than $70,000. A committee comprised of current and retired educators, community volunteers and BAF board members reviewed applications utilizing a 'blind methodology'. This methodology does not present the applicant's name or school during the review process. Thank you to the volunteers who helped BAF review and recommend awards. Full list of funded projects:
BAF is very thankful to the Carter Family Foundation for their continued partnership of this program.
Anyone interested in growing the pool of unrestricted funds that are used to address emerging needs and special projects, including the Students First Program, can make donations in any amount to any unrestricted fund. Mail contributions to BAF, 1210 South Kanawha Street, Beckley, WV 25801, or donate by clicking the button below. If you are interested in starting an unrestricted fund or leaving a legacy gift, call BAF at 304-253-3806 or email [email protected]. |
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